Kalen Chase

Humanities & Form Teacher, Manurewa Intermediate School
Bachelor of Education (Primary Pasifika Teaching)

Teaching has always been a passion of his, says Kalen Chase who completed a Bachelor of Education (Primary Pasifika Teaching) and now works as a teacher at Manurewa Intermediate School.

“From as young as I can remember, teaching has always been my dream career. I wanted to be in a position where I can guide, support and encourage the tamariki of Aotearoa and be an example that anyone – no matter how young or old – can turn their dreams into reality, just like me.”

He loves the impact he can have as a teacher.

“One aspect I’ll forever enjoy about teaching is watching the students have their ‘lightbulb’ moment. The smiles and laughter of each individual student makes it all worth it!

“I’m proud of being able to walk into a classroom, switch on the lights and stand there knowing I’ve accomplished my goal to become a teacher. It makes the long, endless nights and weekends spent at uni all worth it.”

Supported to thrive
Kalen chose to study at AUT because of its whānau-orientated atmosphere.

“AUT is the sort of place where you can express yourself freely within a safe environment, across all three campuses. From the day I first enquired about my possibility of studying at AUT to my very last day behind a computer screen, the staff and wider student community have supported, encouraged, and pushed me to achieve great things. At AUT, you’re definitely not just a number, you are you!

“Some of the many highlights I experienced throughout my time at AUT included receiving the School of Education Award for Student Contribution, being selected as a student ambassador and winning the AUT South Campus representative role. These events gave me endless opportunities to make new connections across all three campuses. I went from walking into a room full of strangers on my first day to leaving with lifelong friends and newly appointed co-workers. Now that is the icing of a beautifully baked three-year cake.”

He wouldn’t hesitate to recommend AUT’s Bachelor of Education to other students.

“If you want to be part of a university that supports you endlessly, encourages and pushes you above and beyond what you think you’re capable of, then this is the programme for you! The staff within the School of Education and the wider university have nothing but your best interests and successes at heart.”

Advice for other students
Kalen, who graduated from AUT in 2021, has some great advice for other students.

“There are three ingredients to be a successful student and soon to be teacher: love what you do, have a passion to make a change, and be willing to learn. Take every single opportunity you’re given throughout your time of study, and if you feel you can do more then do it! Trust me, you’re only building up your personal experience as an upcoming and soon to be teacher.”

Don’t give up, he adds.

“My most important piece of advice is to have fun and never give up.”